Getting pregnant with varicocele
Varicocele is a common condition that often goes unnoticed by most men throughout their lives. However, in some cases, varicocele affects sperm production and the chances of conceiving through intercourse. Read here how varicocele affects male fertility and how to proceed.
What is varicocele?
Varicocele is a male fertility issue, characterized by an enlargement of veins in the scrotum, which can affect sperm quality. This occurs when blood pools in the veins of the scrotum instead of circulating efficiently.
The exact cause of varicocele is unknown. However, studies suggest that factors like valve malfunction in the veins or an unhealthy lifestyle with smoking and alcohol can result in varicocele.
Struggling with male infertility?
If you are struggling with varicocele and getting pregnant, you may want to read more about getting pregnant despite having zero sperm count. Some men end up needing to use a sperm donor, because of their infertility problems. If you have any questions about treatment with donor sperm, feel free to contact us.
How does varicocele affect fertility?
Varicocele can cause obstructive azoospermia, meaning that the enlargement affects sperm production and hinders sperm cells from travelling to the penis, causing little or no healthy sperm cells to be present in the ejaculation.
Other blog posts for men struggling with infertility
How to get pregnant with varicocele?
Many men have some degree of varicocele without it affecting sperm quality. If sperm quality is not affected, try to have regular intercourse around the time of ovulation to improve the chances of success. However, if varicocele affects sperm count and quality, you should consult your doctor. To get pregnant with varicocele, you have the following options:
- Surgery: Depending on the severity and location of the varicocele, surgery may be an option. If the enlargement has not affected sperm production and is removed, sperm quality should return to normal. If not, consult a doctor on how to proceed.
- Fertility treatment: Many men have good sperm quality despite being diagnosed with a varicocele. In such cases, fertility treatment may be an option to increase the chances of success. Depending on sperm quality, fertility doctors will often recommend IUI or IVF.
- Treatment with donor sperm: If the varicocele has caused permanent damage to sperm production or if it is not possible to remove the enlargement, treatment with donor sperm may be an option to consider. An advantage of using a sperm donor is that the genetic relation between mother and child is maintained.
- Adoption: Adoption is also an option if it is impossible to achieve pregnancy because of male infertility.
Personal stories about treatment with donor sperm
Becoming a dad through treatment with donor sperm is not the preferred option for most men. However, during the last 35 years, we have helped many heterosexual couples enter parenthood. Follow the links below to read some of the personal stories:
- Toyah and her husband had three children thanks to a sperm donor
- Being a dad to a donor-conceived child
- How using a sperm donor changed her and her marriage
FAQ about getting pregnant with varicocele
Is it okay to live with varicocele?
Yes, many men live with varicocele without even noticing it. Only a small percentage are affected by it.
Can varicocele go away on its own?
A varicocele cannot go away on its own. The only way to remove a varicocele is through surgery.